At supper that night, the silence was long and deafening. Masevar, since it had been hours since Rockavar's phone call, was now back in his foul, sour mood of late. Sapora was watching him, as he boredly pushed his food around on his plate, with a fork. Finally, she broke the silence. "-Masevar..." He heard, but didn't look up. "-What," he spoke, uninterested. "-You've... barely eaten any of your dinner." He continued to blankly examine his plate. "-I'm not hungry." His mother was starting to feel suddenly frustrated. "If there's something you'd like to talk about, please do, Masevar," she offered, but in truth, it was a plea. He took no heed. "I don't," he replied, bluntly. Sapora sighed. It looked like she'd have to come straight out and keep persisting him, if she wanted to get anything out of her son. "-Honey.. I know about what happened today." He still didn't look up. "-And what's that," he muttered. "-You professor... Master Tudor, and I had a talk earlier." He told me about your little.. 'scene' today." *Little 'scene'!...* Her words made his temper rise, drastically. The young Prince felt his muscles tense up, in anger. If she wasn't his mother and female, Masevar would've slapped her without a doubt/thought. But he somehow managed to control himself, to keep from totally losing it. His fork gave a slight screech against the plate, as he was clutching it so hard. His mouth gave a tiny twitch. He finally managed to get out, "-Oh... DID he now?" Well... good for him, then." He still refused to look his mother in the eye. The Queen gave a sad, look of concern. "-Masevar... why didn't you tell me about it?" Her son's jaw tightened, and nostrils flared. "-Why 'bother'," he mumbled, scornfully. His words pierced Sapora cruelly. "-Why BOTHER??" she repeated. "-Oh look, an 'echo'," Masevar sneered, rich with sarcasm. Ignoring this, his mother went on, "-Because I am your MOTHER, and you are my SON, Masevar!" Of COURSE I'm going to care, when I hear about you, getting all worked up in such a way like that!" Sweetheart... I LOVE you!" And I want to help you, to get through this-" That's when he'd had enough. Her son interrupted in the middle, "-Oh, I get it... first time around you wanted to HURT me, like no tomorrow... and now you want to HELP me!" Oh yeah... well THAT makes 'perfect' sense, to me, goddamnit!" A tiny flame of anger lightened in Sapora. "-Masevar!" You-" "-Me NOTHING!" Just nevermind, okay??" he snapped at her. "-You know what... I've had enough... I don't need take your SHIT, or anyone else's!" Like I haven't had ENOUGH today!" And the last day!" And the frickin' day before that!!" With a flickering rage, Masevar rose to his feet, shoved his chair in, stormed over to the door, and slammed it hard on his way out of it. Leaving Sapora all alone, to sob in peace, with guilt, grief and grimace. Not far away, dinner for Queen Guenevere and Prince Rockavar was no better than that of their friends/former rulers. Their ending was as so... Guenevere had bitten her lip, almost in tears. "-Oh Rockavar... I... I just want you to be HAPPY!" she'd cried to her son. Rockavar had looked at her for a minute, with no expression, just staring. Then he finally spoke, "-Well then... I hate to tell you this Mom..." He got up to his feet and finished, "-I WAS happy." ...Note the 'PAST' tense!" He then simply walked out, leaving the mother vixen to bury her face in her hands, weeping softly.
Earlier that day, a few of the usual gang of friends, had been together, discussing the situation. Since Vera and Aleena were their sisters, Lewis and Charles seemed to have quite a bit to say. The light blue hedgehog sighed, his gaze lowered, brushing a hand across his forehead. The most remarkable thing about his features, were his thick brown eyebrows, and the small mustache under his black nose. Charles Hedgehog was the only one of the group who could actually grow facial hair. It was his "thing" that set him apart from the others. They all had one ("thing"), and facial hair happened to be his, in that matter. He always got jestingly teased for it, not that he minded. He looked to others, moodily, at the question of how Aleena was taking this all, presently. "-How's she taking it?" It's more how is she NOT taking it!" I'm not kidding guys... I've never seen her so depressed, EVER." She won't talk to any of us, she refuses to eat, she hardly ever leaves her room!" And oh yeah... today I took out her wastebasket... that's the THIRD FULL tissue box she's used up, and still going!" ...I'm seriously worried to death about her." It's been over three days... and she's not getting any better from this break-up." The guys all glanced about and nodded solemnly. Charles sighed again, and shrugged, "-You've seen her lately, haven't you?" What about you Bullseye?" The warthog looked up at the mention of his name. "-Eh?" he spoke questioningly. "I've what?" "You've seen Aleena, right?" repeated Charles. "-Isn't she in your English class?" Bullseye muttered, "-Oh... that.. yeah I have." "-So.. has she been acting beside herself?" Have you noticed anything unusual for her, happening?" his friend wanted to know. Bullseye twisted his lips thinking, about school that day...
It was just before noon. In the still, humid English room, the students were having a test. The room was dead quiet, everyone paying attention to their paper. Bullseye was halfway through his, when he heard a strange sound next to him. Cautiously, he glanced out of the corner of his eye. Aleena, who was sitting next to him, was staring blankly at her sheet. Her pink tinted eyes were starting to squint, and she was furiously biting her lip, trying to hold something back. She slightly twitched, at the reaction from what seemed like a hiccup. Then she just let it out. She raised her hands up to her mouth, shut her eyes, and started to cry. Not very loud... but it was enough to make Bullseye dart his attention to the teacher's desk, seeing if the professor had noticed. The adult squirrel's nose twitched, and his gaze rose from his own work, staring off into the distance. The young warthog knew at once, any second, the Master Reid would turn his attention in their particular direction. He'd see Aleena for sure, Bullseye figured. He thought quickly. He needed a distraction. NOW! In a second, the idea popped into his head. He acted on the impulse, right there. With a swift movement, he quickly shoved his elbow into his books, which were on the edge of his desk, and they fell with a loud clatter. Everyone, including the professor and Aleena, looked his way. Bullseye didn't care. This was giving Aleena time to recover herself, a quick save. Playing his role in this "accident", the warthog spoke in fake, yet believable distress, "-Dawww, SHIT!" he cursed, knowing this would get full attention. "-Master Warthogg!" an irritated Master Reid spoke sharply. Bullseye looked up, and simply said, "-I dropped my books, Master Reid." Soooorry!" and he leaned down to start picking them up. The teacher gave him a disapproving look. Bullseye wasn't exactly in his "good" books, for many reasons. Surprisingly, it wasn't his marks, that caused this. Bullseye was actually an excellent student. His IQ was sharp, his wits quick, and a clever tongue to add. He could excel in every one of his classes if he wished. The only thing that kept him from getting straight A's, was his "attitude" problem (language use) and his attendance record. He was an occasional skipper. At least he was HONEST about it though... when asked where he had been or why he didn't come, he'd say something along the lines of, "-Cuz I just didn't feel like dragging my ass here." Thanks for asking!" Master Reid continued to glare at his rebellious student. "-Might I remind you once again, Master Warthogg, to refrain from such language use in my classroom?" he spoke, coldly. Bullseye, still gathering up his stuff, muttered, "-Ah yeah." My bad." The squirrel sighed, and looked to the rest of his pupils. "-I expect you all not to take heed to this distraction, and continue your test please!" The students all settled down, and went back to their work.
When the bell rang, sometime later, as Bullseye walked out of class, a soft voice spoke out. "-Bullseye?" The warthog turned to face the young female. "-Hey Aleena." 'Sup?" The hedgehog licked her lips. "-I... I just wanted to thank you." Bullseye blinked. "-For what?" "-For that back there..." Bullseye shrugged, "-You mean my little class 'disruption'?" What do you mean... I just dropped my books... what'd that do?" Aleena slightly smiled. "-I know that was fake, Bullseye." You might be able to 'pull the wool' over Master Reid's eyes, but not mine." The warthog continued to insist, "-I have NO idea what you're talking about Aleena... that seriously was an accident... I did NOT mean to drop my stuff." The female hedgehog simply shook her head. "Well... either way... thanks, nonetheless." Bullseye rolled his eyes. "-Oookay then... umm, you're 'welcome', then!" Aleena gave him a warm look, and waved, "-Goodbye Bullseye." "Seeya around, Aleena." And he watched her leave. It was strange. For some reason, Bullseye had always had some sort of "loyalty" to her. He'd always stick up for her in a messy situation, and he regarded her a good FRIEND, amazingly, considering his 'womanizing' reputation. She was the only female his age that he didn't have thoughts, that were considered 'undignified', about. He couldn't see her in a sexual way, whatsoever. She was too pure in his eyes, for that. He'd never touch her, even if given the chance... he just couldn't. And she treated him with equal respect. None of Bullseye's defaults, no matter how revolting to her nature, bothered her when he was around her. She looked past them, amd saw the true noble being within Bullseye. She seemed to bring out a better side of him... It was undoubtable, Aleena never ceased to amaze him. Why she, such a sweet girl like her, would want to associate with him, the no-good trash he was, was beyond Bullseye...
"-Well?" The warthog was brought back to the present, by Charles' persistence. Thinking it would be better that the events of that day be left quiet for Aleena's sake, Bullseye just shrugged, "-Naah... she was just a little more 'distant' I suppose." She didn't say much." Charles seemed to take this seriously, and lowered his gaze. "-Yeah... I thought as much." Buckthorne, sensing uneasiness, decided to question Lewis on something. "-So Lewis!" Uhh... well I'm guessing we don't need to... uhh... ask how Vera is taking this... but hey!" What about you??" I mean... we all know how you kinda... were all over her and Rockavar in the first place for it-" So is this a GOOD thing for you, then?" The fox sighed deeply, scratching the back of his neck. "-You'd 'think' that wouldn't ya?" Well... I kinda thought I WOULD be somewhat 'relieved' at this-" Pausing, Lewis shook his head. "-But now that it's over... I... I just don't feel like I thought I would." ..Like... this isn't what I wanted." I mean.. all I wanted was for them to not date!" I didn't want so far as for them to get HURT from it, like this!" Bullseye snorted. "-Well Lewis, what did you EXPECT to happen??" I mean, a step backwards always WAS a tumble." I've learned that the hard way." Like... my father leaving my mother for example." He wanted to go BACK to not even KNOWING her, and all that... but that's kinda hard when you've been MARRIED for SIX YEARS, and have THREE FRIGGIN KIDS!!" All turned towards Bullseye, at the sound of his rising voice. "-Honest to God... I can't understand HOW my brothers can live with that intolerable worthless being..." Then, he switched to a strange tone, "-Sometimes though, there's only one reason I wish I DID live with him..." he admitted. Lewis gulped, and was brave enough to ask. "-Oh?" A sinister look crossed the warthog's face. "-So everytime he looked at me... he'd see our mother staring back at him." Bullseye's fists were clenching tighter and his eyes were looking more dangerous. The guys glanced at each other in a knowing way. Their warthog friend always got rather morbid when it came to talking about family. That's when they did the thing they always did in this situation. Changed the subject. Charles cleared his throat. "-Erm... wow, I just realized I gotta get home early!" Got that... chemistry test tomorrow to be catching up for." Lewis chimmed in. "-Oh ya! That just reminded me... I have the... math review to finish." Bullseye raised an eyebrow. "-How does chemistry remind you of THAT?" Lewis shrugged, "-Uhhh.. dunno... guess cuz it's... 'school-related'?" His friend crossed his eyes, and turned away. "-Whatever... see ya'll bitches later then." Buckthorne nodded to them also. "Bye guys." And the two went off, as the rest split as well.
It was late that night, after the discussion of the four guys, and the Princes' spats with their mothers. At the Hedgehog's home, Aleena was still feeling upset as ever, sprawled across her bed, but starting to get a little tired. For the upteenth time that night, there was a knock. Aleena sighed. "-Who is it, NOW??" she moaned outloud. To her surprise, it WASN'T her mother or father... "-Aleena?" It's me, Charles!" She lifted her head up. It was her brother! "-Charles?" she spoke out. "Something wrong?" "-Nah, nothing's wrong... but can I come in anyways?" Aleena paused for a minute, then responded, "I guess so." She rose to her feet, and made way to the door. Charles stood back, as it was slowly opened. He gave her a warm smile of appreciation. "Thanks, sis." Aleena forced herself to smile back. "-It's alright." Her brother came in, and automatically walked over to and sat on her bed. Aleena quietly closed the door behind her, and joined Charles on the bed. They sat silently for a moment, before Aleena finally asked him, "-So... what's on your mind?" Charles swallowed, clearing his throat, before he spoke. "-Well... first off... I lied to you." Aleena blinked. "-About what?" "I said nothing was wrong... and I didn't mean it." See... there IS something wrong." "Which is?" The brother wet his lips. "-I'm worried... about 'someone'." His sister gave a nod. "And who would that be?" Charles gave a slight sigh, and stroked a hand back against his head quills. "-Who do you 'think'?" I'm worried about YOU!" Aleena felt her face grow a bit hotter, and she turned away a bit, in embarrassment, as he went on. "-I'm serious Aleena!" I'm worried sick!" And so are Mom and Dad!" I swear, I'm not kidding... they're scared to death about you!" You should hear the things they're saying!" She then was starting to look concerned. "-They.. they are?" Charles gave her a look. "-Of COURSE they are!" Aleena, we're your FAMILY!" Don't you THINK we'd care about something like this, happening?" And to YOU especially??" The young female lowered her head. "-I... I suppose so," she said, quietly. The male hedgehog shook his head. "-They really ARE scared Aleena... from the things you been saying or doing... and so am I." This isn't LIKE you... not at all." Aleena took an uneasy breath. "-I know Charles... but... how can I 'act' the same... when I don't 'feel' it?" I mean... I AM sorry that I'm upsetting you all-" She sadly shook her head to herself. "-But you know how we've been raised." ...To never lie to ourselves, or hide how we feel." And I... well... I've been acting basically how I feel... from all of 'this'." Her brother wore a look of true sympathy, tinted with some sort of guilt. "-Aww... Aleena." He gently put a hand on her shoulder. "You know... if it makes you feel any better, I'M pretty bummed out, about this too." I mean, I thought it was a great thing for you guys." You and Masevar were so happy, together." Aleena sniffled, "-I KNOW!" We WERE happy!" But now..." She couldn't stop herself in time. Hot tears ran down her cheeks, and sobs started to tear through her. Charles noticed, and quickly grabbed some tissues. "-Oh man... here sis... I'm sorry about that." He offered her the tissues, which she gratefully took. As she blew her nose, and dabbed her eyes, she questioned, "-Sorry about what?" "-For this... look what I did... I just made you cry again!" Aleena quickly insisted, "-Oh no... Charles it wasn't you!" It was just... that..." Soon the sobs were interrupting her words. She couldn't help it. Once she started... it took SO long for her to stop. Her brother didn't mind though. Instead, he just said, "-Hey... come here." He let her throw her arms around him, and held her for emotional/sibling support. "-Awww... bro," she sobbed, ever so grateful for his brotherly gesture. Charles hugged his sister gently, rubbing her shoulder. "-It's okay Aleena... just cry it out..." This was actually pretty regular attitude for the brother and sister. Unlike most siblings, especially twins, Charles and Aleena got along VERY well together. Sure, there were the rare spats or so, but other than that, their relationship was very close and tight. They talked to each other about things considered secret or personal, confiding in one another, giving advice, support or needed criticism. It was a sweet and unique bond they had. At last, Aleena slowly pulled away, and faced her brother. He asked, "-Feeling better, now?" Aleena nodded, "-I think so." ..Except for one thing." Charles raised his eyebrows. "-Yeah?" Aleena gave a small grin. "-I'm just... kinda tired now, so-" Charles put up his hand, understandingly. "-Enough said, sis." I'll 'haul tail' then." Aleena smirked. "What 'tail'?" Charles smiled, "Look who's talking, 'shorty'," referring to their small hedgehog tails, for no particular reason, except for a small chuckle or two. "-Goodnight, brother," said Aleena, crawling into her bed. "-Goodnight, sister," replied Charles, quietly shutting her door, behind him.
The next morning, they were up early as usual, getting ready for the school day. The bathroom door was unlocked and cracked slightly open, so Aleena just walked right in. To her surprise, her brother was already in there, standing at the sink. She sort of gasped a little, startled that she'd supposedly 'walked in' on him. "-Oh!" I'm sorry Charles, I just need to-" Then she noticed something unusual about what he was doing. He had white cream on his face, and was running a razor blade over it. "-Ummm... what are you doing?" Not turning around, or loosing focus, Charles simply replied, "-Shaving." Aleena blinked. "'Shaving'?" "-Yeah," he told her. "Apparently I have a hint of a 'beard' coming on!" His sister looked a tiny bit amused at this, but not wanting to embarrass him or anything, she responded, "..Oh." She then set to busy herself, by reaching for a hair brush. Charles sighed, "-I know!" It's ridiculous!" he exclaimed. "Like this 'mustache' isn't enough?" he said, poking at the facial hair beneath his nose. The female hedgehog shrugged. "-Oh come on... there's nothing with the mustache!" It makes you look... handsome!" Charles rolled his eyes, with great amusement. "-Says 'who'?" Aleena smiled at him, with a rather mischievous air. "-Vera." At hearing this, the male hedgehog felt his cheeks flush a hot crimson. "-You're not 'serious', are you?" "-That's what she told me!" She said it made you look quite 'dashing'" Charles blushed hotter. "-Weell... in that case... could you do me a favour?" Aleena looked questioningly. "-What's that?" Charles gulped, "-Try not to let Lewis know about that!" ...I mean... I wouldn't wanna get into a "Rockavar" situation with him, if you know what I mean!" His sister giggled. "-Oh Charles!" I don't think that would happen... besides... even if you and Vera ever DID become a couple... I think Lewis would deal with it differently." His relationship with Rockavar isn't the same as his one with you." The male shrugged. "-I dunno Aleena... I think it would be even WORSE!" See... Rockavar is just one of his friends... but I'm his BEST friend!" Doing that to him, would be like jabbing an AX through his back!" Aleena looked a bit shocked. "-Oh my... that's a little... ermm.. harsh I think." "-Yeah well, what to do, right?" said Charles. "-He can't help being protective." Aleena lifted her shoulders. "-I suppose so." It's not like 'I' would know!" Charles gave a small chuckle. "-Yeah... lucky you, sis!" Then he turned his attention back to his reflection in the mirror. He shook his head, in disobeif. "-I seriously wonder Aleena... where I could've POSSIBLY gotten such a fast hair growing gene-" That's when he turned back, to see his sister running the hair brush through her LONG, thick hair... That was all he needed. "...Right." And he turned back around. Aleena nodded. "I understand what you mean... our parents only have their small, short hair locks..." Charles smirked, "-And then there's US... not even 'sixteen' yet, and I've got "rapid" facial hair, and you're a living "Rapunzel"!" His sister smiled with a shrug. "-Well... I never really HAVE cut it, remember?" "-Oh right." Charles laughed a little. Aleena continued brushing her hair, as he scooped a handful of water, and rinsed the shaving cream off his face. After drying himself off with a towel, Charles studied himself in the glass. "-Hmmm..." he muttered, thoughtfully. The female hedgehog looked up. "What is it?" Her brother shook his head to himself. "You know... this mustache makes me look TWENTY!" He sighed, exasperatedly. "-At this rate, I'll probably look FIFTY when I'm only twenty-five!" Aleena grinned. "-You better not tell Father about this... he might get 'jealous'." Charles snickered. "'That'll be the day!" he snorted, tossing the towel at her.
Earlier that day, a few of the usual gang of friends, had been together, discussing the situation. Since Vera and Aleena were their sisters, Lewis and Charles seemed to have quite a bit to say. The light blue hedgehog sighed, his gaze lowered, brushing a hand across his forehead. The most remarkable thing about his features, were his thick brown eyebrows, and the small mustache under his black nose. Charles Hedgehog was the only one of the group who could actually grow facial hair. It was his "thing" that set him apart from the others. They all had one ("thing"), and facial hair happened to be his, in that matter. He always got jestingly teased for it, not that he minded. He looked to others, moodily, at the question of how Aleena was taking this all, presently. "-How's she taking it?" It's more how is she NOT taking it!" I'm not kidding guys... I've never seen her so depressed, EVER." She won't talk to any of us, she refuses to eat, she hardly ever leaves her room!" And oh yeah... today I took out her wastebasket... that's the THIRD FULL tissue box she's used up, and still going!" ...I'm seriously worried to death about her." It's been over three days... and she's not getting any better from this break-up." The guys all glanced about and nodded solemnly. Charles sighed again, and shrugged, "-You've seen her lately, haven't you?" What about you Bullseye?" The warthog looked up at the mention of his name. "-Eh?" he spoke questioningly. "I've what?" "You've seen Aleena, right?" repeated Charles. "-Isn't she in your English class?" Bullseye muttered, "-Oh... that.. yeah I have." "-So.. has she been acting beside herself?" Have you noticed anything unusual for her, happening?" his friend wanted to know. Bullseye twisted his lips thinking, about school that day...
It was just before noon. In the still, humid English room, the students were having a test. The room was dead quiet, everyone paying attention to their paper. Bullseye was halfway through his, when he heard a strange sound next to him. Cautiously, he glanced out of the corner of his eye. Aleena, who was sitting next to him, was staring blankly at her sheet. Her pink tinted eyes were starting to squint, and she was furiously biting her lip, trying to hold something back. She slightly twitched, at the reaction from what seemed like a hiccup. Then she just let it out. She raised her hands up to her mouth, shut her eyes, and started to cry. Not very loud... but it was enough to make Bullseye dart his attention to the teacher's desk, seeing if the professor had noticed. The adult squirrel's nose twitched, and his gaze rose from his own work, staring off into the distance. The young warthog knew at once, any second, the Master Reid would turn his attention in their particular direction. He'd see Aleena for sure, Bullseye figured. He thought quickly. He needed a distraction. NOW! In a second, the idea popped into his head. He acted on the impulse, right there. With a swift movement, he quickly shoved his elbow into his books, which were on the edge of his desk, and they fell with a loud clatter. Everyone, including the professor and Aleena, looked his way. Bullseye didn't care. This was giving Aleena time to recover herself, a quick save. Playing his role in this "accident", the warthog spoke in fake, yet believable distress, "-Dawww, SHIT!" he cursed, knowing this would get full attention. "-Master Warthogg!" an irritated Master Reid spoke sharply. Bullseye looked up, and simply said, "-I dropped my books, Master Reid." Soooorry!" and he leaned down to start picking them up. The teacher gave him a disapproving look. Bullseye wasn't exactly in his "good" books, for many reasons. Surprisingly, it wasn't his marks, that caused this. Bullseye was actually an excellent student. His IQ was sharp, his wits quick, and a clever tongue to add. He could excel in every one of his classes if he wished. The only thing that kept him from getting straight A's, was his "attitude" problem (language use) and his attendance record. He was an occasional skipper. At least he was HONEST about it though... when asked where he had been or why he didn't come, he'd say something along the lines of, "-Cuz I just didn't feel like dragging my ass here." Thanks for asking!" Master Reid continued to glare at his rebellious student. "-Might I remind you once again, Master Warthogg, to refrain from such language use in my classroom?" he spoke, coldly. Bullseye, still gathering up his stuff, muttered, "-Ah yeah." My bad." The squirrel sighed, and looked to the rest of his pupils. "-I expect you all not to take heed to this distraction, and continue your test please!" The students all settled down, and went back to their work.
When the bell rang, sometime later, as Bullseye walked out of class, a soft voice spoke out. "-Bullseye?" The warthog turned to face the young female. "-Hey Aleena." 'Sup?" The hedgehog licked her lips. "-I... I just wanted to thank you." Bullseye blinked. "-For what?" "-For that back there..." Bullseye shrugged, "-You mean my little class 'disruption'?" What do you mean... I just dropped my books... what'd that do?" Aleena slightly smiled. "-I know that was fake, Bullseye." You might be able to 'pull the wool' over Master Reid's eyes, but not mine." The warthog continued to insist, "-I have NO idea what you're talking about Aleena... that seriously was an accident... I did NOT mean to drop my stuff." The female hedgehog simply shook her head. "Well... either way... thanks, nonetheless." Bullseye rolled his eyes. "-Oookay then... umm, you're 'welcome', then!" Aleena gave him a warm look, and waved, "-Goodbye Bullseye." "Seeya around, Aleena." And he watched her leave. It was strange. For some reason, Bullseye had always had some sort of "loyalty" to her. He'd always stick up for her in a messy situation, and he regarded her a good FRIEND, amazingly, considering his 'womanizing' reputation. She was the only female his age that he didn't have thoughts, that were considered 'undignified', about. He couldn't see her in a sexual way, whatsoever. She was too pure in his eyes, for that. He'd never touch her, even if given the chance... he just couldn't. And she treated him with equal respect. None of Bullseye's defaults, no matter how revolting to her nature, bothered her when he was around her. She looked past them, amd saw the true noble being within Bullseye. She seemed to bring out a better side of him... It was undoubtable, Aleena never ceased to amaze him. Why she, such a sweet girl like her, would want to associate with him, the no-good trash he was, was beyond Bullseye...
"-Well?" The warthog was brought back to the present, by Charles' persistence. Thinking it would be better that the events of that day be left quiet for Aleena's sake, Bullseye just shrugged, "-Naah... she was just a little more 'distant' I suppose." She didn't say much." Charles seemed to take this seriously, and lowered his gaze. "-Yeah... I thought as much." Buckthorne, sensing uneasiness, decided to question Lewis on something. "-So Lewis!" Uhh... well I'm guessing we don't need to... uhh... ask how Vera is taking this... but hey!" What about you??" I mean... we all know how you kinda... were all over her and Rockavar in the first place for it-" So is this a GOOD thing for you, then?" The fox sighed deeply, scratching the back of his neck. "-You'd 'think' that wouldn't ya?" Well... I kinda thought I WOULD be somewhat 'relieved' at this-" Pausing, Lewis shook his head. "-But now that it's over... I... I just don't feel like I thought I would." ..Like... this isn't what I wanted." I mean.. all I wanted was for them to not date!" I didn't want so far as for them to get HURT from it, like this!" Bullseye snorted. "-Well Lewis, what did you EXPECT to happen??" I mean, a step backwards always WAS a tumble." I've learned that the hard way." Like... my father leaving my mother for example." He wanted to go BACK to not even KNOWING her, and all that... but that's kinda hard when you've been MARRIED for SIX YEARS, and have THREE FRIGGIN KIDS!!" All turned towards Bullseye, at the sound of his rising voice. "-Honest to God... I can't understand HOW my brothers can live with that intolerable worthless being..." Then, he switched to a strange tone, "-Sometimes though, there's only one reason I wish I DID live with him..." he admitted. Lewis gulped, and was brave enough to ask. "-Oh?" A sinister look crossed the warthog's face. "-So everytime he looked at me... he'd see our mother staring back at him." Bullseye's fists were clenching tighter and his eyes were looking more dangerous. The guys glanced at each other in a knowing way. Their warthog friend always got rather morbid when it came to talking about family. That's when they did the thing they always did in this situation. Changed the subject. Charles cleared his throat. "-Erm... wow, I just realized I gotta get home early!" Got that... chemistry test tomorrow to be catching up for." Lewis chimmed in. "-Oh ya! That just reminded me... I have the... math review to finish." Bullseye raised an eyebrow. "-How does chemistry remind you of THAT?" Lewis shrugged, "-Uhhh.. dunno... guess cuz it's... 'school-related'?" His friend crossed his eyes, and turned away. "-Whatever... see ya'll bitches later then." Buckthorne nodded to them also. "Bye guys." And the two went off, as the rest split as well.
It was late that night, after the discussion of the four guys, and the Princes' spats with their mothers. At the Hedgehog's home, Aleena was still feeling upset as ever, sprawled across her bed, but starting to get a little tired. For the upteenth time that night, there was a knock. Aleena sighed. "-Who is it, NOW??" she moaned outloud. To her surprise, it WASN'T her mother or father... "-Aleena?" It's me, Charles!" She lifted her head up. It was her brother! "-Charles?" she spoke out. "Something wrong?" "-Nah, nothing's wrong... but can I come in anyways?" Aleena paused for a minute, then responded, "I guess so." She rose to her feet, and made way to the door. Charles stood back, as it was slowly opened. He gave her a warm smile of appreciation. "Thanks, sis." Aleena forced herself to smile back. "-It's alright." Her brother came in, and automatically walked over to and sat on her bed. Aleena quietly closed the door behind her, and joined Charles on the bed. They sat silently for a moment, before Aleena finally asked him, "-So... what's on your mind?" Charles swallowed, clearing his throat, before he spoke. "-Well... first off... I lied to you." Aleena blinked. "-About what?" "I said nothing was wrong... and I didn't mean it." See... there IS something wrong." "Which is?" The brother wet his lips. "-I'm worried... about 'someone'." His sister gave a nod. "And who would that be?" Charles gave a slight sigh, and stroked a hand back against his head quills. "-Who do you 'think'?" I'm worried about YOU!" Aleena felt her face grow a bit hotter, and she turned away a bit, in embarrassment, as he went on. "-I'm serious Aleena!" I'm worried sick!" And so are Mom and Dad!" I swear, I'm not kidding... they're scared to death about you!" You should hear the things they're saying!" She then was starting to look concerned. "-They.. they are?" Charles gave her a look. "-Of COURSE they are!" Aleena, we're your FAMILY!" Don't you THINK we'd care about something like this, happening?" And to YOU especially??" The young female lowered her head. "-I... I suppose so," she said, quietly. The male hedgehog shook his head. "-They really ARE scared Aleena... from the things you been saying or doing... and so am I." This isn't LIKE you... not at all." Aleena took an uneasy breath. "-I know Charles... but... how can I 'act' the same... when I don't 'feel' it?" I mean... I AM sorry that I'm upsetting you all-" She sadly shook her head to herself. "-But you know how we've been raised." ...To never lie to ourselves, or hide how we feel." And I... well... I've been acting basically how I feel... from all of 'this'." Her brother wore a look of true sympathy, tinted with some sort of guilt. "-Aww... Aleena." He gently put a hand on her shoulder. "You know... if it makes you feel any better, I'M pretty bummed out, about this too." I mean, I thought it was a great thing for you guys." You and Masevar were so happy, together." Aleena sniffled, "-I KNOW!" We WERE happy!" But now..." She couldn't stop herself in time. Hot tears ran down her cheeks, and sobs started to tear through her. Charles noticed, and quickly grabbed some tissues. "-Oh man... here sis... I'm sorry about that." He offered her the tissues, which she gratefully took. As she blew her nose, and dabbed her eyes, she questioned, "-Sorry about what?" "-For this... look what I did... I just made you cry again!" Aleena quickly insisted, "-Oh no... Charles it wasn't you!" It was just... that..." Soon the sobs were interrupting her words. She couldn't help it. Once she started... it took SO long for her to stop. Her brother didn't mind though. Instead, he just said, "-Hey... come here." He let her throw her arms around him, and held her for emotional/sibling support. "-Awww... bro," she sobbed, ever so grateful for his brotherly gesture. Charles hugged his sister gently, rubbing her shoulder. "-It's okay Aleena... just cry it out..." This was actually pretty regular attitude for the brother and sister. Unlike most siblings, especially twins, Charles and Aleena got along VERY well together. Sure, there were the rare spats or so, but other than that, their relationship was very close and tight. They talked to each other about things considered secret or personal, confiding in one another, giving advice, support or needed criticism. It was a sweet and unique bond they had. At last, Aleena slowly pulled away, and faced her brother. He asked, "-Feeling better, now?" Aleena nodded, "-I think so." ..Except for one thing." Charles raised his eyebrows. "-Yeah?" Aleena gave a small grin. "-I'm just... kinda tired now, so-" Charles put up his hand, understandingly. "-Enough said, sis." I'll 'haul tail' then." Aleena smirked. "What 'tail'?" Charles smiled, "Look who's talking, 'shorty'," referring to their small hedgehog tails, for no particular reason, except for a small chuckle or two. "-Goodnight, brother," said Aleena, crawling into her bed. "-Goodnight, sister," replied Charles, quietly shutting her door, behind him.
The next morning, they were up early as usual, getting ready for the school day. The bathroom door was unlocked and cracked slightly open, so Aleena just walked right in. To her surprise, her brother was already in there, standing at the sink. She sort of gasped a little, startled that she'd supposedly 'walked in' on him. "-Oh!" I'm sorry Charles, I just need to-" Then she noticed something unusual about what he was doing. He had white cream on his face, and was running a razor blade over it. "-Ummm... what are you doing?" Not turning around, or loosing focus, Charles simply replied, "-Shaving." Aleena blinked. "'Shaving'?" "-Yeah," he told her. "Apparently I have a hint of a 'beard' coming on!" His sister looked a tiny bit amused at this, but not wanting to embarrass him or anything, she responded, "..Oh." She then set to busy herself, by reaching for a hair brush. Charles sighed, "-I know!" It's ridiculous!" he exclaimed. "Like this 'mustache' isn't enough?" he said, poking at the facial hair beneath his nose. The female hedgehog shrugged. "-Oh come on... there's nothing with the mustache!" It makes you look... handsome!" Charles rolled his eyes, with great amusement. "-Says 'who'?" Aleena smiled at him, with a rather mischievous air. "-Vera." At hearing this, the male hedgehog felt his cheeks flush a hot crimson. "-You're not 'serious', are you?" "-That's what she told me!" She said it made you look quite 'dashing'" Charles blushed hotter. "-Weell... in that case... could you do me a favour?" Aleena looked questioningly. "-What's that?" Charles gulped, "-Try not to let Lewis know about that!" ...I mean... I wouldn't wanna get into a "Rockavar" situation with him, if you know what I mean!" His sister giggled. "-Oh Charles!" I don't think that would happen... besides... even if you and Vera ever DID become a couple... I think Lewis would deal with it differently." His relationship with Rockavar isn't the same as his one with you." The male shrugged. "-I dunno Aleena... I think it would be even WORSE!" See... Rockavar is just one of his friends... but I'm his BEST friend!" Doing that to him, would be like jabbing an AX through his back!" Aleena looked a bit shocked. "-Oh my... that's a little... ermm.. harsh I think." "-Yeah well, what to do, right?" said Charles. "-He can't help being protective." Aleena lifted her shoulders. "-I suppose so." It's not like 'I' would know!" Charles gave a small chuckle. "-Yeah... lucky you, sis!" Then he turned his attention back to his reflection in the mirror. He shook his head, in disobeif. "-I seriously wonder Aleena... where I could've POSSIBLY gotten such a fast hair growing gene-" That's when he turned back, to see his sister running the hair brush through her LONG, thick hair... That was all he needed. "...Right." And he turned back around. Aleena nodded. "I understand what you mean... our parents only have their small, short hair locks..." Charles smirked, "-And then there's US... not even 'sixteen' yet, and I've got "rapid" facial hair, and you're a living "Rapunzel"!" His sister smiled with a shrug. "-Well... I never really HAVE cut it, remember?" "-Oh right." Charles laughed a little. Aleena continued brushing her hair, as he scooped a handful of water, and rinsed the shaving cream off his face. After drying himself off with a towel, Charles studied himself in the glass. "-Hmmm..." he muttered, thoughtfully. The female hedgehog looked up. "What is it?" Her brother shook his head to himself. "You know... this mustache makes me look TWENTY!" He sighed, exasperatedly. "-At this rate, I'll probably look FIFTY when I'm only twenty-five!" Aleena grinned. "-You better not tell Father about this... he might get 'jealous'." Charles snickered. "'That'll be the day!" he snorted, tossing the towel at her.
